Commissioners approve River Ranch Water Company franchise for county rights-of-way

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners on March 18 approved Resolution 2026-118, granting a nonexclusive right-of-way franchise agreement to River Ranch Water Company for infrastructure in unincorporated parts of the county.

Shirley presented a revised map showing developments and major roads that would use the irrigation system and explained the franchise governs work within county-owned rights-of-way. She clarified the franchise applies to unincorporated Franklin County and that cities handle rights-of-way within annexed areas.

During the hearing, one member of the public raised a general concern about home-charter authority and possible end-runs around municipal rules. Jeff Briggs explained the county could charge franchise fees in principle citing a King County case but noted Franklin County has not adopted a franchise-fee ordinance; the county instead applies an ordinary application fee that covers staff time.

With no written comments and no remaining public testimony, the board closed the hearing and voted by voice to approve the franchise agreement. Commissioners also asked staff to monitor future expansions so the county can update records if the franchise area is extended.

What the franchise covers: County staff said the agreement grants River Ranch the right to place and maintain water/irrigation facilities in county right-of-way in unincorporated areas and requires notification if the company expands service to new developments.

Next steps: County staff will complete final paperwork and monitor any expansion notices from the company.